What a 'state of emergency' declaration doesBut money and messaging are not the only reason a governor makes such a declaration. Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency with regard to coronavirus on March 7 , it temporarily freed up the state from complying with everything from federal transportation laws to meeting quorum requirements for public meetings of health officials. The state of emergency in New York is in effect until September, but Cuomo also temporarily suspended or modified more than 20 state laws or regulations until at least April 6. Gavin Newsom similarly waived many state regulations. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar declared a public health emergency back on January 31.

Source: CNN March 10, 2020 16:52 UTC